“Take down your dating profile?” he teases.
“He did that already,” Campbell appears over his shoulder. “I think I heard a collective sob around the city of Alexandria when it happened, too.”
“Comedians.” I roll my eyes, turning back to my screen. “Two guys who should think twice about being in hockey because, hey, they’re really funny.”
“Funny or not, dinner’s ready. Your plate is on the stove.” Campbell dips his head in the direction of the living room. “Come on Ty, loverboy is probably changing his status to ‘engaged’ everywhere he can to show off.”
I listen to the two of them cajoling me as they close the door and head back down the hallway, but I don’t care. I keep my focus on the phone, pulling up a text thread I’ve not looked at for a while, and I type.
Got engaged.
I stare at it for a second, before I go on.
She said yes, and Theo was in on it too. You would’ve liked that part.
I hesitate, thumb hovering.
We’re thinking of a spring wedding. Small. She says she doesn’t care about the details. (That means she absolutely cares about the details).
A slow exhale leaves my chest as I type one more line.
I’ve got a family now. It’s my turn, Dad. I’m glad I had you to look up to, because it’s time.
The words settle in my bones. Before I can overthink it, my phone buzzes. This time, I’m alerted to a new text. Not just a text, but a whole new thread that I’ve been pulled into like a wave coming to shore. This one is just as special as the texts with my dad, maybe even more so now.
Theo’s Peoplehas 27 unread messages. Oh man, these guys text a lot.
Theo:
Mom said I can wear sneakers to the wedding if they’re clean.
Vivian:
No.
Charlie:
Define clean.
Juliette:
They will not be light-up sneakers. I approve a brand new pair of Converse. You can match Sawyer’s shoes.
Theo:
WOW. This is how democracy dies.
Vivian:
Also reminder that venues book quickly. Someone has to make decisions.
Juliette:
We literally got engaged three days ago.
Vivian:
Exactly. You’re already at least a year behind.
